IDC: iPad Loses Market Share to Android and Windows Tablets

The successful launch of the iPad mini has forced IDC to review its earlier tablet forecast for both 2012 and 2013 and publish an updated version. The strong tablet market has pushed the IDC tablet forecast for 2012 up to 122.3 million, while for next year the market research company estimates the figure will be 172.4 million, up from 165.9 million units.

“Tablets continue to captivate consumers, and as the market shifts toward smaller, more mobile screen sizes and lower prices points, we expect demand to accelerate in the fourth quarter and beyond,” said Tom Mainelli, research director, Tablets at IDC. “Android tablets are gaining traction in the market thanks to solid products from Google, Amazon, Samsung, and others. And Apple’s November iPad mini launch, along with its surprise refresh of the full-sized iPad, positions the company well for a strong holiday season.”

It’s interesting, though, that Android is gaining traction in the tablet market as well, which is pushing Apple’s share down. IDC estimates Android will grab about 42.7% of the global market, while Apple will slip from 56.3% (2011) to 53.8% in 2012.

“The breadth and depth of Android has taken full effect on the tablet market as it has for the smartphone space,” said Ryan Reith, program manager for IDC’s Mobile Device Trackers. “Android tablet shipments will certainly act as the catalyst for growth in the low-cost segment in emerging markets given the platform’s low barrier to entry on manufacturing. At the same time, top-tier companies like Samsung, Lenovo, and ASUS are all launching Android tablets with comparable to premium products, but offered at much lower price points.”

Another interesting highlight of the IDC forecast covers Windows-based tablets: the research company estimates Microsoft’s share will go up to 10.2% by 2016, although it is currently estimated to grab only 2.9% by the end of 2012.